狛江の五本松

Komae no Gohonmatsu. This scenic spot by the Tama River has starred in many a period drama. It evokes a certain nostalgia, a sense of timeless beauty that resonates deeply with the Japanese spirit. Right here in Komae, part of the Tama area of Tokyo, Gohonmatsu, meaning “five pine trees,” holds a special place in local hearts and history. Komae no Gohonmatsu is featured as one of the “50 Scenic Spots of the Tama River” and even earned a spot on the “New Tokyo Hundred Landscapes” list. As you gaze at Komae no Gohonmatsu, imagine yourself transported back to feudal Japan. Perhaps a samurai lord surveys his domain from this very spot, or a geisha strolls along the riverbank, seeking inspiration for a poem. The sight of the black pines against the backdrop of the Tama River creates a truly captivating scene. Komae no Gohonmatsu wasn’t just a beautiful backdrop for dramas. The waters near Gohonmatsu are known as a spawning ground for sweetfish, a delicacy cherished in Japanese cuisine. Every year, from mid-October to November, you can witness these ayu, as they’re called in Japanese, making their journey upstream to spawn. Sadly, the largest of the five pines, a grand old tree, succumbed to the strong winds of Typhoon Talas in September 2011. While it is a great loss, the remaining pines and the breathtaking view continue to draw visitors. Komae no Gohonmatsu, a place of natural beauty and historical significance, invites you to reconnect with the soul of Japan.